Rumor: Displays for 13-Inch Retina MacBook Pro Now in Production

NPD DisplaySearch analyst Richard Shim claims that a high resolution display is in production for a rumored 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display, reportsCNET. The analyst cites supply chain sources and claims that the initial output values are expected to be higher than the current 15-inch version. It is also reported that the display being produced for the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display features a resolution of 2,560 by 1,600 pixels. That is compared to the current version’s 1,280 by 800 pixel screen.

Shim also claims that Samsung, LG Display, and Sharp are all making the new 13-inch screen to meet a high initial volume compared to the 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display’s launch in June. The analyst also pointed out that the manufacturing capabilities of the three different suppliers can factor into how many displays will be ready for assembly.

“With 15.4 it’s production of a few hundred thousand units versus one to two million for the 13.3,” he said. That 13.3-inch production began in the third quarter.

I would assume MacBook Air with Retina displays are still far away since the amount of power and internal space required is much higher than what the current design can handle. Apple has been rumored to be launching the 13-inch MacBook Pro and an iPad mini in October. In the meantime, Apple is expected to reveal the next-generation iPhone.